When he walked outside a few minutes later, two young women were standing near the entrance, one crying on the other’s shoulder.
The one not crying was facing Stone. He gave her a nod, then headed for the curb where Fred was just pulling up.
“Excuse me,” the woman said suddenly.
Stone turned back. “Yes?”
“I’m sorry to bother you. My name’s Sofia and my friend is Ramona, and well…Ramona just found out her boyfriend’s been cheating on her, so she broke up with him.”
“I’m sorry to hear that, though it sounds like the right decision. I’m not sure how I can help, however.”
“The thing is, we came out with him tonight, and when he left, he had Ramona’s phone with him. My phone’s dead and neither of us have any cash, so we can’t even get a cab. I’m wondering if you could let me use your phone to call someone who can arrange a rideshare for us.”
Ramona pulled back from her friend and wiped her eyes. “Sorry. Not my best night.”
“Hon, you didn’t do anything wrong,” Sofia said.
“Where do you live?” Stone asked.
“In Chelsea. We share a studio.”
“Well, Sofia and Ramona, I have a better idea. If you’re okay with it, I would be happy to give you both a ride.” He gestured to the Bentley.
“That’s yours?” Sofia asked, sounding impressed.
“It is.”
Ramona wiped more tears away and squinted at the vehicle. “You have a driver?”
“I do. His name is Fred, and he is very good at what he does. And I’m Stone Barrington.”
The women exchanged glances.
After Ramona nodded, Sofia said, “That would be very kind, thank you. We accept.”
Fred hopped out and opened the back door as Stone led the women over.
“Fred, this is Sofia and Ramona. We’re going to give them a ride home.”
“Very good, sir.”
“I love your accent,” Sofia said. “You’re English?”
“I am.”
“Single?”
“I am not.”
“Too bad.”
Stone let the women climb in first, and then he followed. Once Fred was back behind the wheel, Sofia gave him their address.
As they drove, Ramona stared out the side window, her back to Stone and Sofia.
“She’ll be okay,” Sofia whispered to Stone. “Her boyfriend was a jerk, so it’s for the best.”
Stone nodded but said nothing.
